The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) will host the second edition of the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Drill Inter-Force Competition from 22 to 25 August at the Kololo Ceremonial Independence Grounds in Kampala.
The competition is expected to attract more than 1,400 participants drawn from different UPDF branches and services. The participants will include junior and senior officers, warrant officers and other ranks.
Speaking to the media ahead of the competition, the head of the organising team, Col Henry Obbo, who is also the UPDF deputy spokesperson, said the event will give soldiers an opportunity to demonstrate military discipline, coordination and precision through various drill activities.
He said the drills will include sword and crop-stick drills, pace-stick drills, cane-stick drills and foot drills.
The competition will also feature freestyle drill displays by the top five teams. According to Obbo, the displays will combine elements of Uganda’s cultural heritage with military traditions.
“The top five teams will also perform freestyle drill displays, blending Ugandan cultural heritage with military tradition to highlight the UPDF’s identity,” Obbo said.
He said the competition should not be viewed simply as a military display, but as an event that promotes national pride and highlights the army’s commitment to serving Ugandans.
“This competition is more than a display of military precision. It is a celebration of national pride, sovereignty and the UPDF’s unwavering dedication to the Ugandan people,” Obbo said.
He invited members of the public to attend the event and support the participating teams.
The competition will culminate in a grand finale on 25 August, which will be officiated by the Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba.
The best-performing drill team will receive an award at the finale.
Awards will also be given to the best drill commander, while special recognition will be given for innovation and the integration of Ugandan culture into the drill displays.
The organisers said the competition is intended to strengthen discipline, teamwork and military professionalism among the participating personnel while giving the public an opportunity to witness different aspects of military drill and tradition.
